A graphic of the Jack Layton Journalism for Change fellow
Apply today to be our next Journalism for Change fellow!

Are you interested in producing or supporting journalism for positive change? Find out how you can support the Jack Layton Journalism for Change Fellowship — and how to apply.

We are now accepting applications for the 2023/24 Jack Layton Journalism for Change Fellowship. Valued at $5000, the deadline for applications is Friday, September 22, 2023.

“Don’t let them tell you it can’t be done.” — Jack Layton

The Douglas Coldwell Layton Foundation, rabble, and the Institute for Change Leaders have teamed up to search for a recipient of the Jack Layton Journalism for Change Fellowship for 2023/24.

Jack Layton inspired people by example, proving that working together for social justice is possible and achievable.

The fellowship supports emerging journalists who are engaged in social justice reporting. Over the period of four months, the fellow will develop a feature story with the editor and will work on brief news pieces each week.

Fellowship application guidelines

We are looking for new and emerging writers who have a passion for social justice reporting. Does this sound like you? If so, read on!

The fellowship pays a stipend of $5,000 for the four month period, divided in four monthly installments. The fellow and editor will determine the four month fellowship period.

Applicants will pitch a feature story which they would have a chance to work on in the final month of their fellowship, if selected. In the first three months, fellows will work on weekly news hits and stories from the editor.

During the fellowship the Jack Layton Journalism for Change Fellow will:

  • Produce quick news hits for rabble’s national audience, assigned to by editor Nick Seebruch;
  • Participate in weekly story meetings (by Zoom) and join rabble’s virtual newsroom on Slack;
  • Receive mentorship and support in creating, shaping, and editing a final feature piece;
  • Receive a $5,000 stipend for the four-month fellowship.

This is a part time position. Fellows must be based in Canada.

How to support the Jack Layton Journalism for Change Fellowship

The fellowship is only possible thanks to individual and organizational donations. To ensure this unique program continues running for years to come, you can make a donation here. Be sure to indicate on the donation form that your donation is dedicated to the Jack Layton Journalism for Change fellowship.

If your organization would like to support the future of the fellowship, please reach out to us at [email protected]

Previous Jack Layton Journalism for Change fellows discuss the importance of the fellowship in-depth.

How to apply

Please send a cover letter indicating why you should be the Jack Layton Journalism for Change Fellow together with your resume, feature piece pitch (see guidelines on how to pitch here), and two writing samples to [email protected]

Entries close September 22 at midnight. In the spirit of the virtual office, we are accepting only electronic applications.

We will not contact every application; we will only reach out to candidates selected for an interview. No calls please. Interviews for this position will take place on a rolling basis, so don’t delay sending in your application.

rabble is committed to equity in its policies and practices, supports diversity in its work environments, and ensures that applications for members of underrepresented groups are seriously considered under employment equity. All qualified individuals who would contribute to the further diversification of the rabble community are encouraged to apply.